WWE Confirms No "Tribute to the Troops" Event in 2010

After seven years of bringing wrestling excitement to American servicemen and women in Iraq, Afghanistan and other theaters of war, World Wrestling Entertainment has decided not to make the trip overseas for the "Tribute to the Troops" event this year.

WWE announced earlier in the week that they wouldn't be making the trip, as the Raw and Smackdown brands have scheduled dates across the country during the time they would usually be traveling to military bases and visiting with troops. The overseas tour normally takes about a week.

The idea for "Tribute to the Troops" was suggested to Vince McMahon by former WWE superstar, John "Bradshaw" Layfield. Several WWE superstars and employees were sent to Camp Pendleton, Iraq in December 2003 for the debut event that aired on Christmas Day, as a special presentation of "Friday Night SmackDown!"

Despite enjoying and cherishing the time they were able to spend with the troops during the week, some WWE superstars are relieved that the event won't be taking place this year. Some of the superstars complained about the wear and tear on their bodies, due to the long flight and the abnormal conditions they had to work under during that time.

WWE management is considering doing a similar style event at a stateside military base, but no plans have been revealed at this time.